Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Self-healing Circuit Boards...


A Gearmotor Built to Fit Your Design.
Problem Solved.
Bodine Electric Company
 A Gearmotor Built to Fit Your Design. Problem Solved.
If the motor you need doesn't exist as a standard product, Bodine has the solution. With over 1,000 fractional horsepower (less than
1 HP) stock gearmotors, motors, and controls to start from, we will create a drive system that precisely meets your requirements. Almost every feature can be modified, from the output shaft to the wiring connections. Add-on options such as brakes and encoders can be built in at our factory, reducing your assembly time and costs.

From low-voltage controls to explosion-proof BLDC (ECM) gearmotors, we have helped OEMs design lasting motion solutions for over 100 years.
Connection Systems and Solutions Meeting Specific
Industry Requirements
Stäubli Corporation
 Connection Systems and Solutions Meeting Specific Industry Requirements
With in-depth knowledge of the specific nature of eachindustryStäubli's commercial network is made up of specialists familiar with your requirements and constraints.

From quick connect, multi-couplings, and quick mold change systems to robotic tool changers, Stäubli's engineers and technical support is available to support your application needs.

The industries we serve include automotive, railway, plastics processing, chemical, machine tool, nuclear power, steel, alternative power, and aeronautics. Learn more here.
Temperature Tape for Drying and Curing
LCR Hallcrest
 Temperature Tape for Drying and Curing
Thermostrip® DC is a 10 mm x
56 mm self-adhesive strip with five temperature settings that when exposed to the rated temperature will permanently change color from silver to black. Thermostrip® DC is available in eight (8) temperature sets that range from 37 to 260° C. It provides permanent visual evidence of attained temperature at a bonding site, during lamination, and on garments and articles in a temperature tunnel; printers and ink manufacturers use it to analyze UV ink reactions.

Thermax® non-reversible color changing labels 29 to 290° C are oil, water, and steam resistant, offering inexpensive evidence of temperature achieved for industrial/quality temperature management applications.
PC Configurable Infrared Temperature Sensor
OMEGA Engineering, Inc.
 PC Configurable Infrared Temperature Sensor
OMEGA Engineering's PC configurable infrared temperature sensors, theOS150-2USB Series, measures temperatures from 45 to 2000° C accurately and consistently, with an outstanding response time of240 ms.

The selectable 0 to 20 mA or 4 to 20 mA output is compatible with almost any indicator, controller, recorder, data logger, etc. without the need for special interfacing or signal conditioning.

Learn more about features and specifications.
Waterproof, Drop-proof, High-definition Wireless VideoScopes Introduced
Extech Instruments Corp.
 Waterproof, Drop-proof, High-definition Wireless VideoScopes Introduced
Designed for use in practically any environment, Extech's durable new HDV600 hi-def videoscope camera series features a bright 5.7 in. (145 mm) color display for bright outdoor sites or poorly lit facilities. Optics include 4 mm-6 mm LED-illuminated probes and SD memory will store 15,000 JPEGs or video, plus audio annotations. Glove-friendly controller handsets with 320 degree articulated probesand wireless connectivity (10 m range) simplify inspections.

Now professionals can enjoy ruggedness, upgradeable versatility, and high-definition without compromises. Watch the video or learn more here.
 
R&D REPORT
Circuit, Heal Thyself
 Circuit, Heal Thyself
Many an electronic device has ended up in the scrap heap because of a broken circuit somewhere deep inside. But a team at the University of Illinois has created a "healing agent" to fill the gap in a damaged circuit and restore conductivity before you even notice a malfunction. By microencapsulating a liquid metal which coats the circuitry, a device can fissure and repair itself faster than you can blink, as detailed in this video. They report a 90% success rate with the technology, which was adapted from the concept of self-healing polymer materials.

More from Electronic Components
Print-a-Sensor
 Print-a-Sensor
Researchers have developed a method for the low-cost, mass printing of wireless sensors — including the antenna — on paper or plastic film substrates, using standard ink-jet printing techniques. Their prototype device uses carbon nanotube materials to detect ammonia, an ingredient in many explosives, at concentrations as low as five parts per million. The same technology can detect other, similar gases in healthcare, industrial, or consumer applications.

Learn more about ink jet printers
 
Senscient Announces ELDS™ OPGD Version 1.2
Senscient Inc.
 Senscient Announces ELDS™ OPGD Version 1.2
Senscient announces ELDS Version 1.2 Open Path Gas Detectors with integrated 2.4 GHz wireless communications between ELDS transmitters/receivers and Senscient Install and Commissioning tools. Searchable user data export now allows for permanent records in trend analysis of all gas leak readings, Auto-SimuGas self check values, faults, and warnings experienced by detectors.

Learn more and download ELDS Field Evaluation Reports.
Precision Fine Tolerance Swiss Screw Machines
Vallorbs Jewel Company
 Precision Fine Tolerance Swiss Screw Machines
Using automatic and CNC Swiss screw machines allows theVallorbs Jewel Company to provide you with top quality parts at the tightest tolerances around.

For over 70 years, Vallorbs has enjoyed an enviable reputation for producing precision Swiss screw machine products at the most competitive costs. We have the equipment and the experienced technicians to produce complex shapes in any machinable material up to a 1.250 in. diameter. Contact us and give us a challenge!
Digital Drive Combines Many Functions into One
Dart Controls, Inc.
 Digital Drive Combines Many Functions into One
The Dart MD Series incorporates in a single unit the functionality of DC drive, digital display, On/Run/Off lamps, On-Off switch, counter module or timer module, relay(s), power supply, step-down transformer, and signal isolator. Eliminating one or more of these components not only saves cost but panel space, installation labor, and procurement expense. Learn more.
Robust Solutions for Motion Control Applications
Enertrols
 Robust Solutions for Motion Control Applications
Enertrols offers a rugged, resilient, reliable line of motion control products to handle hot, heavy-duty, dirty, and tough industrial environments. Ideal for applications in automotive, defense, steel mills, oil, gas, mining, marine dockside, and amusement. Our product line includes industrial and safety shock absorbers, gas springs, hydraulic dampers, and elastomeric bumpers.
 
PRODUCT-WATCH
Electrically Conductive Epoxy Adhesive
Epoxies Etc...
 Electrically Conductive Epoxy Adhesive
The 40-3900 is a two-component epoxy adhesivefilled with silver. This electrically conductive formulation is easy-to-use.
40-3900 is a great choice when hot soldering is impractical.More info...
Online TOC Sensor with ISM: Thornton 5000TOCi
Mettler-Toledo Process Analytics
 Online TOC Sensor with ISM: Thornton 5000TOCi
With fast response continuous online measurements, the METTLER TOLEDO Thornton 5000TOCi sensor incorporates Intelligent Sensor Management™ to meet demands for pure water in the pharmaceutical, power generation, and microelectronics industries. More info...
Reliability and Security in a New Dynamic Storage
System
Kardex Remstar
 Reliability and Security in a New Dynamic Storage System
The new Megamat RS Vertical Carousel features reduced lifecycle costs, interchangeable carriers, and multiple control options while saving time, space, and money to increase customer response time!More info...
Falcon2 — Next Generation CMOS Technology
 
Teledyne DALSA
 Falcon2 — Next Generation CMOS Technology
The Falcon2 Series is Teledyne DALSA's latest high-performance area camera family. Featuring our latest CMOS technology for high-speed, high-resolution imaging with true global shutter operation. More info...
ARM Cortex™-M4 Processor
Mouser Electronics, Inc.
 ARM Cortex™-M4 Processor
Targeting digital signal control markets that demand an efficient mix of control and signal processing capabilities, the ARM Cortex™-M4 combines DSP hardware with low power and low cost. More info...
UV Luminescence Sensor with Calibration Function
EMX Industries, Inc.
 UV Luminescence Sensor with Calibration Function
UVX-300-GC luminescence sensor, the first UV (ultraviolet light) sensor with a calibration function.Calibration is made possible through the use of proprietary software algorithmsMore info...
Model HD — Basic Workbench
 
Pro-Line - A Division of RW Hatfield
 Model HD — Basic Workbench
The aesthetics of the modular, ergonomic Model HD, combined with the heavy-duty, independent four-leg design, make this versatile workbench ideal for production and lab areas, as well as cleanrooms.More info...
PCI Express Two-port RS-232/422/485 Serial
Interface
Sealevel Systems, Inc.
 PCI Express Two-port RS-232/422/485 Serial Interface
Sealevel's PCI Express two-port serial interface is configurable for RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485. It integrates a 16C950 UART, supports 9-bit framing, and a wide range of standard and non-standard baud rates. More info...
 
TECHNOLOGY-TRENDS
Rolling Toward a New Day in Bearings
 Rolling Toward a New Day in Bearings
Rolling element bearings are so ubiquitous they're often viewed as commodity components or taken for granted and noticed only when they fail prematurely. The mature design and technology has changed little over the years, and less dramatically in recent years with only minor developments in steel alloying or heat treatment methods. But the near horizon appears to hold some hope to overcome limitations of current rolling elements. Recent advances in computer-based modeling as well as electron microscopy aid the development of new steels which can provide significant improvement — gains in the 30% and greater realm — in energy efficiency, load capacity, speed, and longevity.

Learn more about roller bearings
A Tool for Gentle Dental Treatment
 A Tool for Gentle Dental Treatment
More dental buzz: dentists may be wielding theplasma brush to painlessly prepare teeth for fillings by next year. Cavities are cleaned out and disinfected in less than 30 seconds with the cool plasma device from the University of Missouri and Nanova Inc. Restorations should last longer since the tooth surface is modified to improve bonding of filling material.

More from Medical Equipment Design
 
CHALLENGE-OF-THE-MONTH
This Month's Challenge Sponsored by Cambridge International, Inc.
 Metal Conveyor Belt
What open and easy-to-clean metal conveyor belt can be spliced in 30 seconds? How?



Polar Bear Fur
 
Polar bears appear white, although their fur actually lacks pigment. Why?

Answer / Discuss
 
TECH-ARTICLE
White Paper: Shoulder Screws

"Shoulder Screws, also known as Shoulder Bolts and Stripper Bolts, are machine screws with an integral shoulder or journal between the head and the thread. Although they are not readily available in your local hardware or 'Big Box' store, shoulder screws are used extensively in industry because of their versatility and unique attributes when installed. They can be found in a vast array of applications from aerospace to toys." Read this article in its entirety.

This article is provided by Ondrives.US Corporation (formerly: Rino Mechanical).

Fast-changing Fillers Broaden Their Footprint, and more...


Industry Trends & Events . . .
Fast-changing Fillers Broaden Their Footprint, Push the Limits
Fast-changing Fillers Broaden Their Footprint, Push the LimitsEven as some question whether Form/Fill/Seal technology is near its performance limit, the demand for greater flexibility and efficiency has yet to crescendo. Rising demand has hastened already swift evolution of F/F/S equipment, yielding a market where 250 bags/minute output is common. Some of the advancements — faster feeding and better control mechanisms; ultrasonic sealing; open frame construction; servo-driven machines; modified atmosphere packaging — have inspired use of F/F/S even where it was previously considered out of bounds for these machines, such as bagging fresh produce. Developments seem to indicate there are plenty of gains ahead before we max out performance in "good bags"/min, changeover speed, and machine uptime.
 
Custom Plastic Sheet and Plastic Film
Blueridge Films, Inc. (BFI)
New Protective Lining Products
Polycorp Ltd.
Custom Plastic Sheet and Plastic FilmBlueridge Films is a plastic film manufacturer with 40 years of industry experience. Plastic films are custom manufactured in-house to your exact specifications under our strict quality control standards. All films are available in various colors and thickness. We are standing by to assist you.
New Protective Lining ProductsPolycorp has added four new products to our extensive catalogue of natural and synthetic rubber linings. The new offerings include red and black natural rubber for abrasion resistance and a blend of nitrile and natural rubber for moderate oil resistance. ContactPolycorp for more information.
Automation & Control . . .
Learn More
Synchronizing Motion, Safety, and Servo
Driving
Synchronizing Motion, Safety, and Servo DrivingWhen synchronized movement of more axes and larger machines is the order, this controller could suit. It combines motion control, servo amplification, and safety functions management — utility needed in operations such as multi-branch packaging. Parallel operation of two CANopen networks helps shorten cycle times, and its FPGA chip frees it up from field bus communication.
Tacky Tubing Whittles Web Cleaning Costs
 
Tacky Tubing Whittles Web Cleaning CostsThis disposable roller cover is an economical approach for keeping moving substrates clean. The tacky rubber tubing eliminates the need to send rollers out for resurfacing or plasma spraying. Similar to competing covers, it picks dirt and contaminantsoff moving webs, but differs in its sleeve format that slides over existing rolls.
Rigid & Flexible Containers . . .
Learn More
Venting Trigger Keeps Bottles in Shape
Venting Trigger Keeps Bottles in ShapeA UK company's passive venting trigger is now being used to leak-proof bottles containing strong cleaning chemicals like oxy-liquids. The GOPvent trigger prevents active chemicals, pressure or temperature changes from bloating, paneling, or distorting the bottles as they reach store shelves. A leak-proof seal and a tri-layer liner permit constant airflow, regardless of conditions.
Paper That Acts Like Plastic
Paper That Acts Like PlasticAustrian company Mondi has launched a kraft paper bag that matches the barrier performance of plastics. By laminating the paper with aluminum or EVOH film, the bag passes grease-resistance tests for 20% fat content. The construction is expected to prolong shelf life and preserve flavor of packaged feed or pet food products.
 
Knife-Edge® Close Transfer Belt Curves
Portec
Specialty Cases and Racks for Every Need 
Ameripack Corporation
Knife-Edge® Close Transfer Belt CurvesThe ultimate in small product handling.Flomaster's® innovative Knife-Edgepower curves allow the smooth handling of small products around curves. All Knife-Edge Belt Power Curves feature:
•  Large range of arcs
•  Small fixed position end rolls
•  5/8 in. diameter; all-steel construction
•  Positive chain driven belt — no slippage from contaminants
Specialty Cases and Racks for Every Need   Ameripack supplies quality Sat-com rack cases to the Aerospace, Defense, and Communication markets offering them reliable, affordable, and mobile protection for their valuable electronic equipment (standard and custom).
Ameripack is the smart choice and safe choice for OEM's for all their case, container, and rack requirements. See what we can do for you...
Labeling & Coding . . .
Learn More
Divide to Multiply Printer Output
Divide to Multiply Printer OutputSeeking to increase printing/labeling output, your traditional first thought might be faster printers. Or, you could simply have the machine print more on each traverse. This thermal transfer unit's split platen allows printing multiple lanes and multiple rows with each pass of the print head, vastly increasing impressions for the same timeframe and machine movement.
Ally in War to Counter Counterfeiting
Ally in War to Counter CounterfeitingYour product is unique or has a special corner of the market that needs protection. But does its current package or label assist in holding its niche? This rotary heat embossing and hologram system is designed to add high-brow looks while creating tough to replicate foil packages that help prevent counterfeiting and piracy.
Packing Machinery . . .
Learn More
When Customers Redesign the Case
Packer
A Multi-talented Aseptic Machine
When Customers Redesign the Case PackerWhen the Minnesota maker of case packers asked for ideas, its customers didn't hold back. They wanted three things from their next case packers: faster, simpler, and all servo. The resulting redesign removed more than 200 moving parts, and eliminated pneumatics. The simpler 25 cpm packer costs a third less to make.
A Multi-talented Aseptic MachineAs consumers demand drinks with longer shelf life, aseptic packaging continues to soar. Yet, rare is the VFFS machine that handles the extremely wide scope of applications. Designed for high-speed pouching of high-acid liquid foods, this unit accommodates varied products (multi-viscosity, with or without particulates), processes (Hot Fill, ESL, Ultra-Clean) and temps (35 to 195 F).
 
Thermal Transfer vs Direct Thermal Printing

SATO America, Inc.
Coatings Help Reduce Cost and Protect
the Environment

Sulzer Metco (U.S.), Inc.
Thermal Transfer vs Direct Thermal PrintingSATO's easy-to-understand white paperclearly describes the differences between thermal transfer and direct thermal printing, and charts the strengths and weaknesses of both technologies. Detailed explanations reveal the key issues to consider when deciding the most suitable technology for your label printing and/or print and apply application.
Coatings Help Reduce Cost and Protect the EnvironmentSulzer's thermal barrier coating (TBC) systems for gas turbine hot section components enable higher turbine operating temperatures. In close collaboration with the world's leading turbine manufacturers, Sulzercontinuously improves temperature capability and durability of these TBC systems so that turbine engineers can design units that achieve higher temperatures and efficiency levels.